Nuts

Whole

Whole tiger nut means the intact harvested product of the sweet tuber of Cyperus esculentus, also called chufa—not a true tree nut as traded in-shell or as unbroken shelled units. Buying whole gives control over roasting and grind size compared with pre-ground meal of unknown age. When cracked fresh, flavour should be sweet, coconut-almond-like, and crunchy when dried. Geographic story: likely Africa/Mediterranean with ancient Egyptian and Iberian use. Kitchen uses include Spanish horchata, West African snacks, gluten-free flours, and dairy-free milks. Handling: soak dried tubers for drinks; mill for flour; not shelled like tree nuts. Storage: dried chufa keeps cool and dry; watch for moisture spoilage. Botanically a tuber—important for allergy communication even when sold beside nuts. Allergen: not a tree nut botanically but label for cross-contact and personal allergy histories. In comparison terms, a sweet tuber that plays nutty in drinks and baking. Reject mouldy, insect-damaged, or paint-smelling lots before they enter pastry.